Vanni Cooperative unions appeal for food

[TamilNet, Monday, 31 August 1998, 17:33 GMT]
The Union of Co-operatives in Kilinochchi and Mullaitheevu districts have issued a statement appealing for help to avert the possibility of large-scale deaths by starvation in the Vanni as a result of the Sri Lankan government's embargo on food into the region.

The statement reads:

"The stoppage of relief supplies to the displaced people by the Sri Lankan Government has brought large-scale malnutrition and resultant agonising deaths to its peak."

"It appears that the Sri Lankan government is intending to prolong the situation, to realise its military and political goals. Efforts made by various NGOs and religious organisations to appeal both to the. Sri Lankan government and to other international organisation, along with facts and figures have not produced any favourable change."

"Instead the govt. has employed yet tighter restriction on food deliveries."

"Therefore we appeal, on behalf of the displaced people of Wanni, for your direct contribution and support, on the basis of humanitarian concern and social responsibility, to prevent this dangerous crisis."

"We appeal for your prompt assistance through your individual and collective contributions, as funds and as materials."

The statement was signed by Mr. Soleman S. Chris, head of Kilinochchi district and Mr. Ponambalam, head of Mullaitheevu district co-operatives.